Tesla Cybertruck and Apple Vision Pro: A Dangerous Mix for Drivers

Recent sightings of drivers using Apple Vision Pro goggles while operating Tesla's Cybertruck spark safety concerns, urging caution and attention.

In recent months, the technological landscape has seen the arrival of two highly anticipated products: Tesla's Cybertruck and Apple's Vision Pro augmented-reality goggles. Both products have drawn attention not just for their innovative features but also for their distinct design choices, appealing to a specific demographic interested in near-future technologies. However, this interest has led to a concerning trend: individuals attempting to operate the Cybertruck while wearing the Vision Pro goggles.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg has publicly addressed this issue, emphasizing the importance of driver engagement and control over vehicles at all times, regardless of the advancements in driver assistance systems. This reminder comes amid observations of drivers using the Vision Pro goggles, which are not intended for use while driving, in situations that compromise safety.

Apple has explicitly stated that their goggles should not be used when operating any vehicle, highlighting the risks associated with distracted driving. Despite this, there have been instances where drivers, possibly in pursuit of testing the limits of technology or seeking novel experiences, have been seen using the goggles while behind the wheel. One driver, after being filmed using the goggles while driving a Tesla, claimed to the Austin American-Statesman that their usage was limited to brief periods in a transparent mode, rather than fully engaging with the device's capabilities while driving.

The incident underscores the gap between the capabilities of current advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and the level of autonomy required to safely engage in activities that distract from driving. Even though modern ADAS technologies offer impressive support, they do not provide the level of autonomy that would make the use of augmented-reality devices like the Vision Pro goggles safe while driving. The fundamental requirement for a driver's attention and readiness to take control of the vehicle at any moment remains critical, highlighting the potential dangers of mixing driving with immersive technology.

This situation also serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with adopting new technologies, especially when such technologies intersect with activities that require undivided attention for safety. As both Tesla and Apple continue to innovate in their respective fields, the onus is on users to adhere to safety guidelines and regulations, ensuring that the pursuit of technological advancement does not compromise public safety on the roads.

Source: roadandtrack